Through cloud-based services, the platform helps vending machine operators to collect vast amounts of data from sensors that capture each machine's inventory, customer buying patterns and preferences, as well as key performance indicators (KPIs) regarding temperature and other variables. Together, that data helps companies gain visibility into inventory levels to automate restocking, expedite repairs, and reduce maintenance costs, according to Jabil.

These "smart" vending machines can also improve the customer experience, turning traditional vending machines into connected machines that take advantage of touchscreen controls, video, audio, scent, gesture-based interaction, and cashless payment, the firm said. The machines can also use near-field communications (NFC) to enable wireless services such as mobile orders and cashless payment.

Jabil has partnered with Intel Corp. to supply the chip-maker's reference design for intelligent vending, which includes a processor-based design and application programming interface (API) for accessing machine peripherals. In turn, Jabil supplies its global footprint and partner ecosystem, as well as optimizing hardware and configurable software, and integrating user interface (UI) and control software, sensors, and other components in a consolidated, connected platform.

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